Advice needed before adopting

AmandineB
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Hi everyone,

I’d really like your thoughts as I’m very torn about adopting a 3-month-old Golden Retriever puppy through a rescue.

The puppy is potentially deaf. According to his previous adopter, he might also be visually impaired, though the rescue hasn’t confirmed this to me.

Regarding his history:

- he reportedly had a seizure at 3 months old;

- his littermate, who was adopted by another family, also supposedly had a seizure;

- the rescue thinks the seizure could be related to stress or possibly to him being given Milpro.

I went to meet him today. For about 50 minutes, he slept most of the time. I found him quite withdrawn, not very curious and not really seeking contact. He didn’t come to me when I called him (though I know being deaf obviously plays a part here).

I’m completely torn. My heart is telling me to give him a chance, but I’m also worried about overlooking a more serious neurological issue that I might not be able to manage financially if intensive long-term care is required.

In your opinion:

Can a 3-month-old puppy just be very tired or stressed and then change completely once he’s in a proper home?

Would the fact that two puppies from the same litter had seizures worry you?

Have any of you ever known of isolated seizures following a worming treatment like Milpro?

Would you adopt this puppy given the circumstances?

Thanks in advance for your feedback, I’m really trying to make an informed decision, both for his sake and mine. ❤️

Translated from French
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3 answers
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    Picco85 Icon representing the flag French
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    Would you adopt this puppy in this context? = No, not at all.
    Translated from French
    Kikaah
    Kikaah Icon representing the flag French
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    “Can a 3-month-old puppy just be very tired and stressed, and then change completely once they’re with their family?”

    Absolutely! Behaviour in a rescue centre is rarely the same once they’re in a home. And at that age, they haven’t finished developing yet :)

    “Would the fact that two puppies from the same litter have had seizures worry you?”

    Yes, I’d definitely be asking some questions.

    “Have any of you ever experienced isolated seizures after a wormer like Milpro?”

    Not personally, but with this kind of chemical product, even if it’s regulated to be safe, some dogs can occasionally have issues—it’s often just down to bad luck.

    “Would you adopt this puppy in this context?”

    Yes, I think so, but only if I was sure I could manage the costs of any potential problems, because while it could be the Milpro, it could also be something else. It’s worth looking into getting pet insurance.

    But if you have any doubts, don’t rush into anything.

    Translated from French
    ProvetoJuniorConseil
    Provetojuniorconseil Icon representing the flag French
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    Hi there, Your concerns are completely valid. Puppies sleep between 18 and 20 hours a day at this age. If he also has sensory impairments (confirmed deafness and potentially limited vision), the way he interacts with the world is completely different: he won't pick up on footsteps, voices, or visual cues from a distance. A deaf puppy with poor sight in an unfamiliar environment or around strangers tends to "withdraw" to protect himself, which explains why he seems so quiet and reserved. Once he’s in a stable home and starts to feel confident, his true personality may well emerge. Regarding the seizures, it’s unlikely they’re related to the Milpro treatment, as neurological reactions are extremely rare. However, the fact that another puppy from the same litter has also had a fit is something that definitely needs looking into seriously. To do this, you could ask for a full vet check before adoption to get a clear picture of this young Golden's health. The decision to adopt is entirely yours, but it's certainly necessary to weigh up all these factors. If it turns out to be a serious condition and you’re not sure you can manage the financial commitment, there is absolutely no shame in deciding not to go ahead. Giving a dog a home is an act of love, but it still needs to be sustainable for you in the long run :)) All the best for the future. Kind regards, Laure.
    Translated from French

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